Harmonium [Live]

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Harmonium is John Adams's breakthrough work. After experimenting with a number of different styles, he settled on consonance and simplicity, and became famous upon the work's premiere in 1981. It exemplifies his music--a listener-friendly West Coast minimalism using tasteful, keyboards-enhanced instrumentation and having a generally mellow sound. Adams harmonizes seemingly disparate parts: dense, complex, death-obsessed poems by two very different writers, one by the worldly John Donne and two by the reclusive Emily Dickinson, sung by a choral group rather than soloists. And he makes it work. Unlike the newer Nonesuch recording, this reissued ECM Harmonium retains a sense of something fresh, beginning at a barely perceptible pianissimo, growing through the meditations of "Negative Love" and "Because I Could Not Stop for Death" to the ecstatic, erotically charged crescendo of "Wild Nights," and settling back into calm. Images of artificial forms of transport, including boats, run through the poems. Yet, considering the cover shot of barnacle-laden rocks on the seashore, one imagines Adams's music as portraying, instead, the shifting moods of the ocean itself. Indeed, it is the perfectly natural kind of elevation that Adams's oratorio celebrates, and that Edo de Waart and the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra remain expert at conveying. --Robert Burns Neveldine

Tracks:

Caccini/Mercurio: Ave Maria
Mascagni: Sancta Maria
Gounod: Ave Maria
Schubert: Ave Maria
Franck: Panis Angelicus
Rossini: Cuius animam
Verdi: Ingemisco
Mozart: Ave verum
Wagner: Der Engel
Handel: Ombra mai fu
Niedermeyer: Pieta signore
Rossini: Dominus Deus
Schubert/Mercurio: Mille Cherubini in coro
Gruber/Mercurio: Silent Night
Wade: Adeste Fideles
Gloria a te, Cristo Ges

Amazon.com

When he was growing up, Andrea Bocelli recalls finding inspiration in a favorite recording of sacred music performed by tenor legend Franco Corelli. Bocelli--who in the meantime has come to inspire millions of fiercely loyal fans himself--returns to the genre as the guiding theme of Sacred Arias, the release of which coincides with the first English-language biography of the singer. These performances are filled with the singer's phenomenally well-known vocal signature: his flair for long, sweetly floating high notes and the gentle sense of cadence he brings to a melody. It's a mistake to compartmentalize Bocelli into a singer of "operatic" versus "popular" styles: in truth his approach is at heart the same. Lack of color and control in his phrasing remains a drawback, but the emotional empathy Bocelli evokes is never in doubt. The arias collected here sample some of the most famous devotional pieces: Schubert's "Ave Maria" and Mozart's transporting "Ave Verum," as well as an arrangement of "Silent Night" in which Bocelli tries out his English. There's also a decidedly odd choice of bedfellows for a program of "sacred" music, such as a song from Wagner's Wesendonck Lieder (whose "angel" is the object of an overpoweringly erotic attraction) and Handel's figurative ode to a tree, "Ombra mai fu." Still, Bocelli sings with an unfeigned directness that is sure to expand his already enormous following even further. --Thomas May

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful music.......2007-01-12

This is my second copy of this CD, I burned the first one out!!
Andrea Bocelli has a very gorgeous voice that is a gift from above. His voice is not affected or braggadoccio but naturally magnificent. I could and do start my day listening to this spiritually uplifting CD almost everyday. It is a wonderful way to get off to a pleasant peaceful start, but also a nice way to come home in the evening if you have a CD player in your car. I highly recommend it to all.

Andrea Bocelli-Sacred Arias.......2006-08-25

Excellent listening. Voice quality and tone is superb. Brings tears to my eyes when I envision listening to this in a church setting.

An "experience" of sacred arias more than "listening" of sacred arias.......2006-04-28

I bought this CD's special edition with DVD, and I am impressed by bocelli's singing in this album. I have heard many voices singing sacred songs, and christmas songs, but very few singers can achieve the "sacred atmosphere" that bocelli devotes when he sings. He may not have a "strong" voice as opera singers, but I think singing these sacred songs, devoting the "sacred atmosphere" to the audience is much more important, the voice actually is just a tool that helps a singer to achieve the result. For real, I have heard some CD by some chorus that perform sacred arias, but they did not move me as much as this CD does, mostly not even close. Personally I like "O come all ye faithful", "silent night", all "ave maria"'s, "domine deus", "cujus animam" the most. When I listen Bocelli's singing I focus on what he tries to devote in singing more than his voice color, because in terms of voice color he surely cant be compared with pavarotti or domingo, so why compares? The way of listening him and listening real opera singers is different man. But the reason I gave only this CD four stars is that I have heard several sacred arias from this album performed by his voice teacher, the legendary tenor Franco Corelli. I tried not to compare both...but I cant, not because Bocelli sings bad, he is already excellent, just Corelli is TOO excellent that cant be described by human language (well I think even Pavarotti is not even close to Franco Corelli, but this is just my opinion). Anyway if you want to "experience" the true beauty of sacred arias, this CD is highly recommended. And this is also a very good sacred aria album for beginning listeners who want to broaden their musical taste to sacred arias.

amazing talent.......2006-03-25

worth the price the songs are breathtaking and talent is indescribable

Perfect arias for the perfect voice.......2006-03-04

These are just terrific. How does Andrea acheive the range he does, and the power he has, without sounding too heavy or too light? His voice sounds like the perfect voice for these perfect arias.

I have noticed one concern with the CD. I have heard several clicks scattered here and there in the songs -- but the CD is clean and I feel confident it is not the machine. Has anyone else noticed this?

Average customer rating:

A Man and His Art - Magnificently Captured
What can you say - it's Segovia!
EVERYBODY KNOWS
Immortal guitar
WOW

Art of Segovia
Andres Segovia
Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | International | Styles | Music

Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music

More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Essential Guitar: 33 Guitar Masterpieces
The Segovia Collection
300 Years of Guitar Masterpieces
The Best of Andrés Segovia: The Millennium Collection
Spanish Guitar Music

ASIN: B00006B66L
Release Date: 2002-10-08

Tracks:

Andante
Andantino
Lento
Romance De Los Pinos
Madronos
Serenata Burlesca
Variations On A Theme From Mozart's 'The Magic Flute'
Mesto E Calmo
Theme, Variations & Finale
Cancion Mexicana No.X
Sevillana, Op.29
Sarabanda
Capriccio Diabolico, Op.85
Tonadilla For Guitar On The Name Of Andres Segovia
No.1 In E Minor
No.3 In A Minor
Guitarreo
Segovia, Op.29

Tracks:

If My Complaints
Now, O Now I Need Must Part
Sarabande
1. Prelude (Transposed In D Major)
4. Tempo Di Bourree
Courante
3. Gavotte En Rondeau
Aria E Corrente
Moderato
Menuet In G Major
Andantino Variato
No.7 In A Major
2. Canzonetta
2. Quasi Lento (Preludio)
1. Andantino Poco Allegretto (Allegretto)
2. Il Vecchio Castello
Allegretto
Tres Calme Et Doucement Expressif
No.4 In E Flat Minor
5. Asturias. Leyenda - Preludio
7. Zambra Granadina
Estudio Sin Luz
Allegro Con Brio

Amazon.com

DG has put together a fascinating compilation of Segovia's art that reminds us what a protean figure he was. Segovia single-handedly put the instrument on the map by making classical guitar concerts popular events, broadening the instrument's repertory through commissions and transcriptions, and convincing even doubters that it could be a vehicle for serious music. He's heard here in brief pieces recorded between 1952 and 1969. Even in those made when he was well into his 70s, his fingers remain nimble and interpretations lively. Listening straight through, one hears many all-time Segovia favorites as Turina's Sevillana and Albeniz's Asturias and Zambra Granadina and renews appreciation for path-breaking composers like Castelnuovo-Tedesco. He wrote extensively for Segovia and his Capriccio diabolico and Tonadilla are pieces of real substance. Disc two is largely made up transcriptions and it's amazing how well so many of them work on the guitar, at least under Segovia's magic fingers. Thus the transformations of Bach's violin music and even a Chopin Prelude sound idiomatic, and the gorgeous melodies of the Canzonetta from Mendelssohn's Op. 12 String Quartet are irresistible here. An entrancing set. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

A Man and His Art - Magnificently Captured.......2007-04-06

This 2-CD set produced by Deutche Grammmophon and first released in 2002 is one set of the hundreds that could have been or the dozens that actually have been made and sold successfully all over the world. The exceptional feature of this particular collection is not, of course, the performer. Quite to the contrary, the miraculous consistency of stylings and performance are amongst the most remarkable aspects of the man who was, arguably, the 20th Centry's virtuoso supreme of the classical guitar, Andres Segovia (1893-1987.) Rather, it is the collection itself - the pieces chosen to be produced on this one set - this, to steal a German word, gestalt. While his style did not remain constant throughout his long life and career, by the time he had developed his most masterful skills that included doing his own arrangements - the era represented on this particular set (1951-1960) - his playing had become completely his own - unchallenged and unmatched by even other clearly great guitarists with whom he shared this era.

There are a total of 31 pieces played on these CDs and while a playlist would be an unnecessary use of space here, a list of the composers represented is not. More than the specific pieces Segovia gives us here, the range of composers chosen by the compilers and editors - with each piece rearranged by Segovia himself, tells us a great deal about his interests, talents and musical range. These composers include:
Isaac Albeniz, Johann Sebastian Bach, Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Frederic Chopin, Claude Debussy, John Dowland, Manuel de Falla, Cesar Franke, Girolamo Frescobaldi, Edvard Grieg, George Frederic Handel, Felix Mendelsohn, Frederico Moreno Torroba, Modest Mussorgsky, Nicolo Paganini, Felipe Pedrell, Manuel Ponce, Jean-Philippe Rameau, Joaquin Rodrigo, Albert Roussel, Domenico Scarlatti, Alexander Scriabin, Segovia's own composition of Estudio sin luz, Fernando Sor, Francisco Tarrega, Joaquin Turina and Heitor Villa-Lobos. A truly magnificent and broad ranging collection held together by Segovia's unique personal style, approach and sound.

Largely self-taught, Andres Segovia did things with a guitar that others only imagined. He didn't just play Bach, for example - music written for an entirely different type of instrument (keyboards.) He went a step further, and recorder Bach's keyboard lessons written for his students (the Two and Three Part Inventions) and made them sound as if they had been written for the guitar! His artistry is evident to even the casual listener and in this collection, any devote of classical guitar and/or of Segovia as an individual artist, will not be disappointed.
Perfect listening for anytime. Hypnotic and, simply, unsurpassed. A necessary addition to any serious classical guitar collection.

What can you say - it's Segovia!.......2007-02-10

I saw Segovia perform live in my youth. What a treat! Anyone who loves Classical Guitar should love this collection.

EVERYBODY KNOWS.......2007-01-13

EVERYBODY KNOWS THAT ANDRES SEGOVIA WAS/IS THE WORLD'S GREATEST CLASSICAL GUITAR PLAYER. THIS CD IS A COMPILATION OF HIS RECORDINGS FROM THE THE EARLY 50'S TO THE LATE 60'S. HIS GUITAR MASTERY IS UNQUESTIONED AND HE IS AN INSPIRATION. I WISH I COULD PLAY GUITAR LIKE ANDRES SEGOVIA (BUT I CAN'T AND I NEVER WILL!).

Immortal guitar.......2006-08-02

Two CD's with Segovia's immortal music - an incredible treat at a great price!

WOW.......2006-02-23

Even though there is hiss from the original analog recordings this one is a must. Segovia! What more can you say. Anyone who likes classical guitar will love this.

Average customer rating:

Heart Warming & Pleasurable
Harmonium
Truly Disappointed In This Sophomoric Release
Vanessa's Masterpiece
"Love is dancing on my finger..."

Harmonium
Vanessa Carlton
Manufacturer: A&M
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Pop | Styles | Music

Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Be Not Nobody
Hotel Paper
The Spirit Room
Let Go
Under My Skin

ASIN: B0002ZYEKA
Release Date: 2004-11-09

Tracks:

White Houses
Whos To Say
Annie
San Francisco
Afterglow
Private Radio
C'Est La Vie
Half A Week Before The Winter
Papa
She Floats
(Hidden Track) The Wreckage

Amazon.com

Sophomore albums are dicey affairs. With an early fork in the road before them, fresh-faced artists find themselves with a choice of either repeating the formula that worked before or venturing out in uncharted territory. Vanessa Carlton opts to test her range with her ambitious, admirable, but not always successful follow up to 2002's Be Not Nobody. Collaborating with boyfriend Stephan Jenkins (the Third Eye Blind frontman produced the album and helps out as a writer and musician), Carlton explores new themes and sonic textures throughout the 10-song outing, scoring impressively with the likes of "White Houses" (featuring Fleetwood Mac's Lindsey Buckingham) and the assured, driving "Private Radio." The naiveté of "San Francisco" is ultimately winning ("Talking in the Mission over coffee/ This is my utopia" she gushes, though the line about "Steinbeck and those old men whistling" is a headscratcher). Still, the elegant arrangements and Carlton's insistent piano lines can't quite cover up a lack of truly memorable melodies. Yes, Carlton is maturing and Harmonium brings her closer to where she's going, but she's still got a ways to go. --Steven Stolder

Album Description

Vanessa Carlton returns with her highly anticipated sophomore album, "Harmonium." With the release of her first album, "Be Not Nobody," Vanessa was met with great response. Rolling Stone listed her as one of the "Ten Artists to Watch for 2002" and sure enough, her 2002 debut, "Be Not Nobody" was nominated for 3 Grammy awards and sold over 3 million albums worldwide.

Now Vanessa is back poised to exceed the accomplishments of her debut. With the help of her producer Stephan Jenkins (3rd Eye Blind), and guest musicians and vocalists which include Lindsey Buckingham and Pharrell Williams, Vanessa Carlton has created, yet again, a truly outstanding album.

ENHANCED CD features intimate behind the scenes footage with Vanessa.

Customer Reviews:

Heart Warming & Pleasurable.......2007-07-20

Vanessa Carlton's "Harmonium," is wonderful. Packed with feet tapping beats, and sing-a-long lyrics, this is the ultimate summer album. I find myself listen to other songs that arn't matched to this true talent. Vanessa Carlton, who not only sings and writes these songs, but plays the piano too. I was suprised at this ability to be able to do this album with such passion. Each song with a story, every sound carefully placed into a Symphony of beautiful music.

I was so excited when i got the news that she will have a new album coming out called "Heros & Theives," Nolita Fairytale as the first single. Harmonium is a well put together album, that will always remind you of the good days in life. When you get this album, enjoy it. I did.

Harmonium.......2007-01-15

okay I would like to say thay i think this is the best cd I've ever bought in my life. I'm not even joking you... and if you think im wrong, that's okay... I don't really care. :D

White Houses- The song is about a time with her friends, and she's talking about how much fun she had and just all the experiences she had, this song is close to my heart, I seriously relate. The lryics are so relatable, and you feel like one of her friends. 10/10

Who's To Say- This is one song that I'm sure I'll love forever. It's about her and her boyfriend and how no one approves of them and how young they are and how sometimes you listen to your family and sometimes you dont for your own good. This is kind of like Beautiful by Christina Aguilera, but more subtle. Like it kind of goes along with like same-sex relationships and stuff. The lyrics are amazing. 10/10

Annie- It's about a little girl she meets and she's dying and she loves Vanessa a lot, and she just really admires her. She thinks that she shouldn't think that trying to live is life. One of my favorite songs of all time. Most definitly 10/10

San Fransico- Obiously, about San Fran and it's about what her perspective is about the city. The piano, and band playing in the back is great. This song just... really makes you want to go there. 10/10

Afterglow- Slower than the other ones but most definitly one of my favorites. The song's about is talking about this revalation she's having and how the person's shes trying to tell inst understanding. "If you could see, what's coming over me then you would know..." I love this one 10/10

Private Radio- This one could have definitly made it on the radio and would have done really well. Catchy... very catchy, and a good song. Not my favorite, but a good one. 9/10

Half a Week Before Winter- I'm ont exactly sure what this song is about.. not my favorite... actaully probably my least favorite. But it's not terrible. 7/10

Cest La Vie- Omigossh I love this song. It's really raw, and it's really tell-it-like-it-is. The music is beautiful and it's one of my favorites. 10/10

Papa- Really slow beggining. But the piano, and everyhting is really beautiful and really raw edged. Not as pretty at Whtie Houses, but still very good. "Boy you give good, love plastic love." 9/10

She Floats- I love the lyrics to this song, and the orchestra is amazing in this song. Very girl interrupted. People say it reminds them of Avril Lavigne, but no... it sounds like Vanessa. 8/10

The Wreckage- The lyrics are really... Let's just say that you have to read between the lines of the song... It's not easy to apprehend. But still very good, thought not my favorite. 7/10

as you can see i really thought this cd was great. People say it was a bad second album.. I myself, didn't buy the first one, but I honestly think it's the best cd i own... and i own alot.

Most Definitly buy this cd... haha hopefully this wasn't too long.

:D

Truly Disappointed In This Sophomoric Release.......2006-12-21

As a fan who greatly appreciated her sophisticated musical and lyrical artistry on "Be Not Nobody" (debut recording), I had also rated her first album with five stars. Yet, I was truly disappointed in what I felt was a greatly anticipated yet regressive second release. My first impression was that her vocals hadn't matured, and that they had actually become more childish. This sounded to me like what I would have expected from a sixteen year old singer-songwriter on her debut album. Even Lindsay Buckingham's vocal artistry and contributions to this album can't save this work from the sonic nose-dive that is the end result. The orchestral arrangements are definitely lacking in the artistry and brilliance that were brought out by the President of A&M Records, as producer-extraordinaire on her first debut album "Be Not Nobody". I fault A&M Records for not controlling her artistic development more closely and by giving too much creative license to Vanessa's boyfriend Stephan Jenkins (Third Eye Blind), as producer on this release. Perhaps A&M is also to blame for allowing such over-production from the first album in allowing the licensing of Vanessa's music for cell phone ring-tones, albeit Vanessa shares some of the responsibility for this. This kind of free-for-all attitude indicates that doesn't really speak of real artistic integrity but more toward the triumph of the dollar over carefully nurtured artistic development. What still shines through however, is the impressive brilliance of Vanessa Carlton's piano work, unfortunately still hampered by the production quality of the vocal melodies. This release is seriously lacking the controled production mastery of her first album.

Vanessa's Masterpiece.......2006-06-13

It took only two years for Vanessa Carlton to come back out of the studio with her second album: HARMONIUM. The record is a remarkable piece of work, and even better than Carlton's pervious album. Once again, by the Pop/Rocker's side is an amazing group of a professional orchestra, professional guitarist, bassist, and drummer. The group's work had astoundingly progressed with more musical traits such as passing chords, melody lines, dynamics, and counterpoint. Third Eye Blind's singer and guitarist Stephen Jenkins also stepped in as Vanessa's producer, adding his own share of creating this amazing piece of work. The duo's colaberation and compatibility truly rings to one's ears on the track "She Floats". The piece contains a beautiful orchestrated introduction, and a unique use of Carlton's and Jenkins' own musical wailing and screaming. HARMONIUM is a work displaying Vanessa Carlton's true musical aspirations, and the album is a must have for any music fan.

Enhanced CD features contains behind the scene footage of making HARMONIUM.

Stand out tracks include:
"White Houses"
"Who's To Say?"
"Private Radio"
"Half A Week Before The Winter"
"She Floats"

"Love is dancing on my finger...".......2006-05-07

Vanessa Carlton's sophomore effort, Harmonium is a outstanding album. I did not care for her first album, Be Not Nobody. The only songs I did care for were Ordinary Day and A Thousand Miles. Here on Harmonium all 11 tracks are brillant, moody, and cool. Afterglow and Who's To Say are my fave tracks, great ballads. Her boyfriend Stephen Jenkins (Third Eye Blind) helped produced this album and he did a fabulous job with the final result. C'est la vie and Private Radio are really strong uptempo songs. I love her paino playing on She Floats and The Wreckage. She shows great promise on San Fransico and the first single, White Houses. The best song is a tearjerker called Annie, the song is about a young girl dying, "I'd give my bones for you to get a few more years..." Papa and Half a week before the winter show Carlton's growth as a songwriter and musician, "He sits behind a desk of mahogany, he whispers dreams into my ear..." It's a shame this album wasn't commerically succesful like her first album because this could not be a better album. Harmonium is a hidden treasure, buy it now, you won't be disappointed.

Average customer rating:

If you love beautiful voices...
If you want to know Corelli's art, this is the right CD
excellent gift
Greatest Tenor of This Century!
Ah... Franco :}

The Very Best of Franco Corelli

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

$9.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

The Very Best of Beniamino Gigli
The Very Best of Giuseppe di Stefano
Carlo Bergonzi - The Sublime Voice ~ 40 Tracks from the Legendary Tenor
The Very Best of Nicolai Gedda
Very Best of

ASIN: B00008V5VV
Release Date: 2003-04-22

Tracks:

A Te, O Cara
Meco All' Altar Di Venere... Me Protegge, Me Difende
Ah Si, Ben mio...De Quella Pira
Se Quel Guerrier Io Fossi!...Celeste Aida
Pur Ti Riveggo, Mia Dolce Aida
Intanto Amici... Viva Il Vino Spumeggiante
Mamma, Quel Vino E Generoso
Recitar!... Vesti La Giubba
No, Pagliaccio Non Son
Colpito Qui M'avete...Un Di All'azzuro Spazio
Credo A Una Possanza Arcana
Legray!... Andrea Chenier!...Si, Fui Soldato
Come Un Bel Di Di Maggio
Vicino A Te

Tracks:

Donna Non Vidi Mai
Recondita Armonia
E Lucevan Le Stelle
Non Piangere, Liu... Ah! Per L'ultima Volta!
Nessun Dorma
Favorita Del Re!... Spirto Gentil
Cielo E Mar
L'anima Ho Stanca
Non Lunge Della Torre... Bianca Al Par Di Neve Alpina
Ange Adorable
L'amour, L'amour.. Ah! Leve-Toi, Soleil!
O Nuit Divine!
C'est La! Salut! Tombeau!
Fronde Tenere... Ombra Mai Fu
Ave Maria
Domine Deus
Core 'Ngrato
Torna A Surriento

Customer Reviews:

If you love beautiful voices..........2007-04-30

and passionate singing, you won't be disappointed. While Corelli certainly had his flaws, they are minor in the larger picture of this unique, magnificent force of nature. Then get this set for your friend who thinks Andrea Bocelli is a great tenor.

If you want to know Corelli's art, this is the right CD.......2007-03-10

Franco Corelli had one of the powerful tenor voices of the twentieth century. Think Mario del Monaco with more beauty and grace; think Richard Tucker with a smoother voice. He had annoying touches in his singing, such as those "catches" here and there. But, with Tucker, he is, in my estimation, one of the two most powerful and attention riveting tenors in the past century. Other tenors were more artistic, provided better characterization (think Domingo, Gigli, Pavarotti, Gedda, Caruso, and some others).

But Corelli was a wonder of nature! Some samples: "Ah si, ben mio. . .Di quella pira." If there were an aria made for Corelli, this would be it. His big, rich, powerful voice fits this cut nicely. Not much subtlety here. In "Di quella pira," he hits the high notes in a stentorian manner. There are those mannerisms, but they are so easily forgiven, taking into account that rich, lustrous voice.

"Celeste Aida" is another representative cut. This is a powerful version. Also, note how he goes from forte to piano at the end of this aria. A powerful effect indeed.

Then, there are the twin arias from "Tosca." In "Recondita armonia," his rich voice is well manifest. He exhibits a smooth line in his singing. This is a powerful version of this well known aria. "E lucevan le stele" displays again that rich voice. At one point, he goes from forte to piano in a mesmerizing manner (Who'd have thought it?). His final "la vita" grabs one's attention.

Finally, "Nessun dorma." Well, smoothly, and powerfully sung. The final "vincero" is powerfully rendered, leaving goose bumps on the spine.

This is the very best of Franco Corelli. Those who want to get a sense of the vocal prowess of one of the most powerful tenors of the 20th century should attend to this double CD set.

excellent gift.......2007-02-09

I gave it to my father and he says Its an amazing cd.

Greatest Tenor of This Century!.......2007-02-03

Franco Corelli is the greatest tenor of this century. Although there are many fine tenors including Carlo Bergonzi - no tenor comes close to singing with the pure heart and animal magnetism of Franco Corelli. Surprisingly, he was also quite comfortable with bel canto, listen to the incredible "A te o'cara". I've heard "Nessun Dorma" sung by many excellent tenors and hands down, none can touch the sublime beauty of Corelli's version. This 2cd set of his greatest arias is a wonderful gift for any opera fan. "Recondita Armonia" is my personal favorite. His thrilling vocal beauty and intensity of performance is truly unforgettable.

Ah... Franco :}.......2007-01-10

Such a pleasing voice. I can't believe the clarity and perfection. He was well before my time and others have become more 'popular' since then, but for some reason his voice seems better than the more current singers. I do not know much about opera so I will have to rely only on my own ears. I happily recommend this double album. I like to have it playing on the 5 CD changer with other opera cds, mixing through them...it is a perfect saturday morning accompaniment. enjoy.

Average customer rating:

awsome!

Savasana

Manufacturer: Wah Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | New Age | Styles | Music

Relaxation | New Age | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Jai Jai Jai
Savasana 2
The Best of Wah!
Dakshina
Opium

ASIN: B0001WAGQA
Release Date: 2004-10-26

Customer Reviews:

awsome!.......2006-12-26

Heard in a yoga class, had to buy it. It just resonates with the soul, what can say after that?

Average customer rating:

breakdown by cd.
I'm not a music expert

Dvorák: The Masterworks [Box Set]

Manufacturer: Brilliant Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Czech | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Blowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Brilliant Classics | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Mendelssohn: The Masterworks [Box Set]
Vivaldi: The Masterworks (Box Set)
Brahms: The Masterworks (Box Set)
Haydn: The Masterworks [Box Set]
Schubert: The Masterworks [Box Set]

ASIN: B00062FLJW
Release Date: 2004-11-30

Customer Reviews:

breakdown by cd........2007-01-14

CD1-7:SYMPHONIES 1-9

CD8:PIANO CONCERTO

CD9:VIOLIN CONCERTO & CELLO CONCERTO

CD10-11:REQUIEM

CD12-13:STABAT MATER

CD14:PIANO TRIOS OP.90 "DUMKY" & 21

CD15:PIANO TRIOS OP.65 & 26

CD16:PIANO QUARTETS

CD17:PIANO QUINTETS

CD18:STRING QUINTETS

CD19-20:MUSIC FOR VIOLIN AND PIANO

C21:SERENADE/HAUSMUSIK

CD22-31:THE COMPLETE STRING QUARTETS

CD32:SLAVONIC DANCES OP.46 & 72

CD33:PIANO DUET SLAVONIC DANCES

CD34:PIANO DUET LEGENDS FROM THE BOHEMIAN FOREST

CD35:PIANO WORKS

CD36-37:RUSALKA

CD38-40:SYMPHONIC POEMS

I'm not a music expert.......2005-08-25

I don't know too much about music. I own over 700 cds, but I don't play music and I don't have much experience with this music. My only point of reference was the ninth symphony, seeing as every other piece in this box set was new to me. It sounds fine, nothing wrong with it as far as I can see.

Now, here's what you'll get in this box set, seeing as Amazon does not give it a description. 40 cds! no joke, you get 40 cds in this box set. It features:
1. Complete symphonies
2. Complete symphonic poems
3. Cello concerto
4. Piano concerto
5. Violin concerto
6. Requiem
7. Stabat Mater
8. Slavonic Dances
9. Complete String quartets
10. Chamber music
11. Piano Works (solo and duet)
12. Rusalka

As far as I can tell, the only things missing are The Spectre's Bride and Jacobin. Seeing as it is 40 cds, i have not had an opportunity to listen to it, however what i have heard i have been quite satisfied with.

Average customer rating:

For historical reference, a must have.
A real rarity
a voice teacher and early music fan
What a beautiful voice!
A new world opened in front of me.

Moreschi - The Last Castrato

Manufacturer: Pearl
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Chants | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Arias for Farinelli
Moreschi: The Last Castrato (Life & Times)
Farinelli
The World of the Castrati: The History of an Extraordinary Operatic Phenomenon
Farinelli

ASIN: B000000WYS
Release Date: 1993-01-21

Tracks:

Domine salvum fac
Et incarnatus est, Crucifixus
Ideale
Ave verum
Tui sunt coeli
Ave verum
Crucifixus
Crucifixus
Pie jesu
Hostias et preces
Preghiera
Ave Maria
Incipt lamentatio
Laudamus te
Improperia
La cruda mia Nemica
Oremus pro pontifice
Pope Leo XIII

Customer Reviews:

For historical reference, a must have........2007-05-09

If you're looking for the best quality recording, it's not due to the recording technologies of that time; Allessandro Moreschi died in 1922. But, if you want to hear how a castrato could sound like, it's a great recording reference. Sound quality is average; a lot of hiss and clicks. The singer or the singing "seems" average too: a lot of scooping (remember: different times, different singing techniques, different tastes; could be the result of singing in the acoustics of the Sistine Chapel). But, I don't regret my choice because I wanted a recording I could go back to and appreciate the evolution of singing throughout history.

A real rarity.......2007-05-07

Very interesting and rare recordings of the last castrato, even if his voice was at that time already rather exhausted. The most fascinating thing is to hear from living the voice of a Pope of the XIXth Century as Leo XIII was.

a voice teacher and early music fan.......2006-10-03

Professor Alessandro Moreschi (1858-1922),made in 1902-3 about 10 recordings all devoted to 19th century religious music. For us today the great question is: how far do Moreschi's records allow us to form any notion of the characteristics of castrato singing in the great periods? To that question there can be no certain answer, but I think that the resemblance must be slight! To begin with Moreschi's technique, far from being impeccable, often sounds shaky; in some passages he fumbles for his notes and wavers almost comically as Florence Foster Jenkins herself. These vocal shortcomings can hardly be ascribed to the singer's advanced age, for in his mid-forties he ought to have been not far past him prime. Ancient though the records are, they are reasonably well-recorded and probably give a fairly accurate impression of Moreschi's tone quality, if not his volume. The voice, unquestionably a soprano, resembles that of neither boy or woman, being stronger than the one and less sauve than the other. And I am totally sure that he is a long way from Farinelli. He is surprising, but never exquisite. The most painful for me to listen to were:'Ave Verum' Mozart- 'Crucifixus' from 'Petite Messe Solenelle' Rossini-and 'Ave Maria' Schubert. My problem with this disc is no doubt the fact that I would not want anyone to think that Moreschi's voice even in his prime was in any way equal to the great castrati singers of the 17th century!!!!

What a beautiful voice!.......2005-08-16

Moreschi's voice is incredibly beautiful. You have to get beyond the fact that this is an old recording and just listen to him hit those high notes without sounding shrill or breaking apart. In the end, this is your only chance to listen to a real castrato, and a good one at that.

A new world opened in front of me........2005-08-16

As a long-time lover of classical music but an amateur in opera I got interested into the opera voices and the castrato voices especially since I read a book about the castratos (Anne Rice: Cry to Heaven).
I was at first slightly shocked about the CD. Spoiled by our standards today I had to get used to the voices and especially to the low quality of the recordings (1902-04). The more I was listening the better I liked it. I started to understand that this long ago poeple were feeling different and therefore singing different. So many more emotions and so much suffering, you can hear it in the music if you can open up to it and, ignore the bad technical part of it.
I don't regret buying this rare recording since it gave me more than just music.
Thanks for saving these recordings and thanks to Amazon for making it possible to buy them.

Sacred Arias [Special Edition with Bonus DVD]

Average customer rating:

A spiritual experience

Sacred Arias [Special Edition with Bonus DVD]
Andrea Bocelli , Giulio Caccini , Cesar Franck , Charles Gounod , Franz Xaver Gruber , George Frideric Handel , Jean-Paul Lecot , Eric Levi , Steven Mercurio , Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart , Louis Niedermeyer , Gioachino Rossini , Franz Schubert , Giuseppe Verdi , John Francis Wade , Richard Wagner , Myung-Whun Chung , and Santa Cecilia National Academy Orchestra Rome
Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Noels | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music
Similar Items:

Andrea Bocelli - Amore
Romanza
Sentimento: Andrea Bocelli with Lorin Maazel and the London Symphony Orchestra [Limited Edition w/ Bonus Track]
Andrea Bocelli - The Opera Album ~ Aria
Cieli di Toscana

ASIN: B0000CE9VO
Release Date: 2003-10-14

Tracks:

Ave Maria
Sancta Maria
Ave Maria
Ave Maria
Panis Angelicus - Norbert Balatsch
Cujus Animam
Ingemisco
Ave Verum Corpus
Der Engel
Frondi Tenere... Ombra Mai Fu
Pieta, Signore - Norbert Balatsch
Domine Deus
Mille Cherubini In Coro - Norbert Balatsch
Silent Night
Adeste Fideles (O Come, All Ye Faithful) - Norbert Balatsch
Gloria A Te, Cristo Gesu (The Hymn Of The Great Jubilee)
Agnus Dei
I Believe

Amazon.com

When he was growing up, Andrea Bocelli recalls finding inspiration in a favorite recording of sacred music performed by tenor legend Franco Corelli. Bocelli--who in the meantime has come to inspire millions of fiercely loyal fans himself--returns to the genre as the guiding theme of Sacred Arias. These performances are filled with the singer's phenomenally well-known vocal signature: his flair for long, sweetly floating high notes and the gentle sense of cadence he brings to a melody. It's a mistake to compartmentalize Bocelli into a singer of "operatic" versus "popular" styles: in truth his approach is at heart the same. Lack of color and control in his phrasing remains a drawback, but the emotional empathy Bocelli evokes is never in doubt. The arias collected here sample some of the most famous devotional pieces: Schubert's "Ave Maria" and Mozart's transporting "Ave Verum," as well as an arrangement of "Silent Night" in which Bocelli tries out his English. There's also a decidedly odd choice of bedfellows for a program of "sacred" music, such as a song from Wagner's Wesendonck Lieder (whose "angel" is the object of an overpoweringly erotic attraction) and Handel's figurative ode to a tree, "Ombra mai fu." Still, Bocelli sings with an unfeigned directness that is sure to expand his already enormous following even further. This new special edition includes two bonus tracks on a CD enhanced with a picture gallery as well as a full-length DVD of Bocelli in concert filmed at the Basilica of Santa Maria sopra Minerva in Rome. --Thomas May

Album Description

Special Edition includes enhanced CD with bonus tracks and concert DVD.

Customer Reviews:

A spiritual experience.......2003-11-27

The DVD is the full 77 minute concert with two featurettes previously released alone. The CD is the full 72 minute concert previously released alone, except that two bonus tracks have been added. The audio quality of each one is quite good. (If you have a Dolby Digital stereo, then you must go into the setup menu on the DVD to select Dolby Digital sound. The default music track is the stereo 2.0 sound.) The video quality of the DVD is astonishing.

Tracks:

Song To The Moon
Should I Ever Learn
How Confused I Feel
Solveig's Song
Solveig's Cradle Song
Amor Volat Undique
Stetit Puella
In Trutina
Vier Letzte Lieder
Vier Letzte Lieder
Vier Letzte Lieder
Vier Letzte Lieder
Symphony No. 4 In G
Tatiana's Letter Scene

Tracks:

Un Cenno Leggiadretto
Ho Perduto Il Caro Sposo
O Had I Jubel's Lyre
Laudate Dominum
Welche Wonne, Welche Lust
Porgi, Amor
Voi Che Sapete
Giunse Alfin Il Momento...Deh Vieni, Non Tardar
Crudele?...Non Mi Dir
Come Scoglio
Una Donna A Quindici Anni
Der Holle Rache
Ach, Ich Fuhl's
Crucifixus
Die Forelle
Gretchen Am Spinnrade
An Sylvia
Zueignung
Es Lebt' Eine Vilja
Klange Der Heimat

Customer Reviews:

Ever-reigning Queen of Sopranos.......2007-05-28

Listening through these two discs, one thought kept leaping up to mind: will ever there be another soprano as versatile and accomplished as Lucia Popp? Died in 1994 at the early age of 54, the operatic world hadn't really mourned her enough.
People are still lingering on Maria Callas, the 'star' soprano with all her glamour and legendary life could offer.
Real listeners, however, could not give up the memory of Lucia Popp's terrific artistry and almost supernatural voice.
Her Rusalka, her Solveig, her Susanna, Zerlina, Despina in the da Ponte/Mozart trio, her terrific Queen of the Night (unsurpassed by ANY subsequent sopranos up till now), and ALSO her Pamina in the same opera. In any language you ask her to sing, and she excelled. I marvel at the Letter Scene in Eugene Onegin - only if Lucia had the chance to perform the whole opera during her short life! The joy, the expectation, the emotional tribulations, so vividly captured in girlish and pure timbre. No one will ever beat her; not even Fleming and Netrebko.
"Weird and wonderful" - that's what Elisabeth Schwarzkopf said of Lucia Popp's singing. We today would modify it to 'wonderful and unsurpassable'.
This 2-CD set is an absolute must have, even if you have never heard of Lucia Popp before.

Lucia Popp.......2006-01-12

This is a wonderful album showcasing the very best of Lucia Popp (as the title suggests). Her voice was absolutely beautiful. She could sing the slavic languages like no one else. Her version of Dvorak's Song to the Moon is unbeatable. I dare anyone to find a better performance! Also, the song from Die Zauberflute -Ah Ich fuls (sp?) is outstanding. I've yet to hear a better version. Her diction was fantastic and while she wasn't the highest soprano around - she knew what worked for her voice. This is album is a keeper!

Lucy: The Reigning Queen of Opera.......2004-07-12

Lucia Popp is one of the best sopranos to ever grace the operatic/classical voice stage. This CD compilation shows her progression through lyric Handel to lyric and dramatic Mozart (her Der Holle Rache from Magic Flute is unrivaled) to tender art song and operetta literature. The first disc also showcases her adeptness with 20th Century literature as well as the ability to step out of the traditional four languages of opera. Any avid music fan MUST have this CD compilation.

Stand Ye Steady: Songs of Courage & Inspiration

Average customer rating:

bowersreview
USMA Glee Club scores a real hit
Reverent, Full of Love
Good CD
A real disappointment...

Stand Ye Steady: Songs of Courage & Inspiration

Manufacturer: Curtain Call Prod
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Hymns | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Stand Ye Steady: Songs of Courage & Inspiration
In The Presence
We Were Soldiers: Original Motion Picture Score
The Spirit of America
We Were Soldiers

ASIN: B000ATQYVU
Release Date: 2005-09-06

Tracks:

Men Of Freedom
The Longest Day
Into The Fire
Rise Up, O Men Of God
On Great Lone Hills
Lest We Forget
Mansions Of The Lord (Interlude)
Mansions Of The Lord
Jerusalem
Via Dolorosa
Non Nobis
The Star-Spangled Banner
Take Me Home (With I Am A Soldier)
America (My Country 'Tis Of Thee)
Men Of Freedom
This Christmastide

Customer Reviews:

bowersreview.......2007-01-04

Exceptional CD. Inspirational and motivational. Highy recommend this for anyone seeking great quality music.

USMA Glee Club scores a real hit.......2006-11-14

This album is awe-inspiring. I bought the album after hearing an out take from "Men of Freedom", the tune is from an old Welsh battle song. You will recognize the tune if you saw Zulu Dawn with Michael Caine. Many of the other songs are equally powerful and mesmerizing. The only songs I didn't like were when the Glee club used guest soloists. They were less impressive and, in my opinion, took away from the strength of the group.

I liked the multiple verses sung from America, I wished they would have given the Star Spangled Banner the same treatment. The Mansions of the Lord is powerful and supremely reverent, as is Rise Up. I would dearly like to hear more from this talented group of soldiers.

Reverent, Full of Love.......2006-09-26

When I saw and heard this music broadcast Veteran's Day on TBN and my friends serving in our Armed Forces in Iraq saw it broadcast on Armed Forces Network, I was so happy to find the stereo CD and companion Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound DVD on Amazon. I cannot stop listening to it! The 60 minute musical program, reminiscent of the great concept albums of years ago, is one of the most reverent, intelligent and passionate portrayals of America's character ever produced. It contains many styles of choral music - all superbly performed by the world famous Cadet Glee Club of West Point arrayed in breathtaking formation on the altar of the massive 100 year old Cadet Chapel. There are richly textured vocal a capella songs such as "Rise Up O Men of God", "Manisons of the Lord", one of the most popular new hymns written, and "America (My Country `Tis of Thee)". Your buttons will burst with pride when you hear the brand new song "Men of Freedom" introduced by a single Cadet then followed by a cascade of additional voices building to a unified and thunderous declaration of defiant freedom in a style reminiscent of the great Welsh Male Choirs. Four songs highlight the power and majesty of the largest church organ in the world. You'll have to fight the urge to stand at attention when you hear and feel its power kick in on "Lest We Forget", "On Great Lone Hills", "Jerusalem" and "This Christmastide". The musical variety is further enhanced by the addition of brass and percussion for the rousing marches, "The Longest Day" and "Non Nobis". When was the last time you heard these two songs - one by world famous singer, songwriter and teen idol, Paul Anka and the other a medieval celebration of thanksgiving sung in Latin! The rich background vocals of the Cadet Glee Club musically frame two songs that underpin the message of this album - Bravery and Sacrifice. "Into the Fire" by NYPD's Daniel Rodriguez made me want to immediately rise up and rush to anyone's aid and when he holds that note at the end - wow! Tony Award Winner Lea Salonga's performance of the classic Christian hit, "Via Dolorosa", (one of the top 50 Christian songs of all time), is "The Passion of the Christ" embodied in a 5 minute song. You will alternate between tears and goose bumps. Her performance of the Spanish stanza will overwhelm you. Finally, Irish song writing master, Phil Coulter's wistful "Take Me Home" is accompanied by beautiful piano and guitar and introduced by a new poem entitled "I Am A Soldier" that is sobering reminder of the oath our soldiers swear to and the actions they are bound to take. God bless them!

A great bonus of the CD and DVD is that they both include a stylish lyric booklet as well as commentary by the producer on why he chose each song.

On the back cover of the CD and DVD cases is the statement that this production was created to honor the men and women of our Armed Forces, past and present, and the great values of America that they defend. This it surely does!! Also, it states that the producer is contributing a portion of his wholesale proceeds from its sale to organizations assisting our wounded soldiers. Bravo, Mr. Coppi.

Good CD.......2006-07-19

Wonderful songs and wonderful renditions of the songs. I must say, though, that the numbers would have been better if they were performed with more "ooomph" (for instance, "The Star Spangled Banner" could have been sung with more power and the arrangement could have used more creativity). The wisest decision on this CD was the inclusion of the numbers from Ms. Lea Salonga (whose hauntingly beautiful voice is able to effectively draw listeners in) and Daniel Rodriguez, one of America's newest tenors. Overall a good CD.

A real disappointment..........2006-06-10

I was so excited to stumble upon this album when a local music store was going out of business and selling CD's at great discounts. I love Glee Club music, I love patriotic music, and I love cathedral/chapel accoustics. Unfortunately, this album did not live up to its billing.

My primary complaints with this recording are twofold: the overuse of unison singing and the unnecessary inclusion of guest soloists. The beauty of glee club music is the rich chords, which are thankfully heard in many songs. To my dismay, though, there are many songs that mostly or entirely omit the beautiful harmonies that make glee clubs great.

As for the guest soloists, I don't understand why a singing group which obviously has many wonderful voices would bring in outsiders for an album like this. Actually, I do know why they would do it, and it's obviously a marketing thing that has financial implications. As reasonable as this may seem, it just cheapens the experience for me. Another great feature of glee clubs (and college choirs more generally) is the lack of polished, perfect, professional singers. There is something raw, authentic, and refreshing about a bunch of college kids singing together. Why bring in random people with no particular connection to the group?

To be fair, "Rise Up, O Men of God" and "Mansions of the Lord" are fantastic. I'll continue to play this album to listen to those songs. However, much of the remainder is somewhat forgettable.

Music Review:

Music Review

music review

Music Review

Profile [Import]

Schubert: Symphony No. 1, Symphony No. 4; Webern: Variations for Orchestra / Zender

Schubert: Symphony in C No6, D589; Mass in Bf D324, Op141

New Born

Pure Techno, Vol. 3 [Explicit Lyrics]

Structures from Silence

Shalom [Import]

The Beta Band

Somewhat Similar

Second Nature [Import]

Space Flight [Original recording remastered] [Import]

Reliquia Musical

Recordando a Los Grandes Trios [Import]

Zoltan Kodaly: Theater Overture / Concerto for Orchestra / Dances of Marosszék / Symphony in C - BBC Philharmonic / Yan Pascal Tortelier

The Best of Delbert McClinton